Tokyo's popular attractions: 12 must-see spots for traveling to Japan

With a population of over 38 million people, Tokyo is an exciting city with no shortage of things to see and do. If this is your first time visiting Japan's capital, you'll want to visit the city's major landmarks, such as Tokyo Tower and Meiji Jingu Shrine. You'll also want to experience the nightlife of Roppongi and go shopping in the famous Ginza! Follow this article to check out these worth-visiting attractions in Tokyo!

1. See the city skyline from the 250-meter-tall Tokyo Tower.



For an unparalleled view of Tokyo, you can’t miss Tokyo Tower. This communications tower is Tokyo’s most iconic building and the second tallest tower in Tokyo and Japan. The tower is bright orange and white and has been a classic location for many movies shot in Tokyo. Tokyo Tower has two viewing floors: the 150-meter main viewing floor and the 249.9-meter highest observation floor. Paying guests can visit the main viewing floor at any time during business hours, but the highest observation floor requires advance registration. Tokyo Tower is located in the city center and is easily accessible by foot from the following stations: Akabanebashi Station, Onarimon Station, Kamiyacho Station, and Daimon (Tokyo) Station. Entering Tokyo Tower, you will first enter FootTown, a 4-story building with direct access to the main viewing floor. FootTown features a cafe, gift shop, tourist information center, and an indoor amusement park known as the "Tokyo One Piece Tower." This amusement park is themed after the popular anime One Piece, where One Piece fans can get to know the world of One Piece and satisfy their anime addiction!

2. Shopping in Ginza: Find high-quality goods and souvenirs in one place



Located in the central Chuo district, Ginza is Tokyo's most famous high-end shopping district, and some of the most expensive properties in the world. Ginza is not only home to many flagship stores of international brands, but also to some high-end local boutiques. Many trendy and cosmetic brands also have their place here. If you want to treat yourself to some shopping, Ginza is definitely not to be missed. You can easily reach Ginza Station by taking the Ginza Subway Line, Hibiya Subway Line, and Marunouchi Subway Line. Alternatively, you can also walk to Ginza from Yurakucho Station in 5 minutes, or from Tokyo Station in just 15 minutes. Most of the stores, department stores, and shopping malls in Ginza are basically open every day!

Must-visit shopping spots in Ginza

• Ginza Six: Ginza’s largest shopping mall is Ginza Six, which has over 240 stores selling cosmetics, trendy brands, interior design, and other types of goods.

• Wako Main Building: Located in the iconic clock tower of Ginza, it is a department store that sells jewelry, handbags, porcelain tableware, and everything else.

• Mitsukoshi Department Store: Mitsukoshi’s flagship store has a total of 15 floors, of which 4 floors are dedicated to women’s clothing. There are also many other things, so take your time to browse, and you will find everything you want here.

• Ginza Tokyu Plaza: This shopping mall has over 14 floors, and 2 floors of duty-free shops allow you to shop without worrying about taxes.

• Matsuya Ginza Store: Another popular department store in Ginza, Matsuya Ginza Store sells a variety of trendy brands, household goods, food, and even pet supplies.

• UNIQLO Ginza: This is the flagship store of the Japanese national brand UNIQLO. UNIQLO Ginza has 12 floors of various UNIQLO products.

• Marronnier Gate: This shopping area consists of 3 buildings. In Marronnier Gate, you can find boutiques and luxury stores of all sizes.

3. Take a leisurely stroll through Meiji Jingu Shrine and learn about Japanese history.



Meiji Jingu Shrine is one of Japan's most famous and popular shrines, built in memory of Emperor Meiji and Empress Dowager Shoken. The shrine complex consists of three main parts: a 170-hectare forest area for rest and recreation, an inner area in the middle of the forest, and the outer area of ​​Meiji Jingu Gaien, located to the east of the shrine. The inner area of ​​Meiji Jingu Shrine, also known as the inner courtyard, is home to the beautiful Jingu Gyoen Gardens, where you can find many traditional Shinto memorabilia. The vast outer gardens of Meiji Jingu Shrine are where you can find many of Tokyo's major sports facilities. Jingu Gaien is also home to the Shotoku Memorial Museum of Painting. A visit to Meiji Jingu Shrine is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and a great opportunity to learn about some of Japan's traditions and history. Meiji Jingu Shrine is within walking distance from Meiji Jingu-mae Station or Yoyogi Station. The entrance to the shrine is decorated with traditional Japanese torii gates, which represent the path to the holy land. A 10-minute walk through a quiet walkway guarded by hundreds of trees will bring you to another large torii gate, which is the entrance to the inner courtyard. You don't need to buy any tickets to walk around or visit the shrine, but you need to buy a separate ticket to enter the Jingu Gardens. But the Jingu Gardens are definitely worth the price of admission! If you happen to visit in June, you can see the beautiful scenery of the butterfly flowers (Japanese irises) in full bloom.

4. Enjoy a legendary nightlife experience in Roppongi



Roppongi is widely considered the center of Tokyo's nightlife. It is the place where locals hang out on weekends and tourists go to bars, so there is no shortage of nightclubs where you can go crazy and have fun! Most of the nightclubs are located in Roppongi Hills, an urban complex development in the city center. To explore Roppongi Hills and other areas of Roppongi, get off at Roppongi Station. Once you exit the station, you can easily find many nightclubs to party all night long!

The most popular nightclubs in Roppongi:
• Club Six Tokyo, address: B1F, 4-1-1 Nishi-Azabu, Minato, Tokyo
• V2 Tokyo, address: Roi Building 13F, 5-5-1 Roppongi, Minato, Tokyo
• Odeon Tokyo, address: Hanatsubaki Building 3F, 3-15-23 Roppongi, Minato, Tokyo
• Esprit Tokyo, address: B&V Building 2-3F, 5-1-6 Roppongi, Minato, Tokyo
• Brand Tokyo, address: Econach Nishi-Azabu Building, 1-7-2, Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
• Muse, address: B1F, 4-1-1 Nishi-Azabu, Minato, Tokyo

5. Enjoy a full day outdoors at Tokyo’s largest park



Tokyo may be the most populous city in the world, but it still has plenty of green spaces and parks to breathe in some fresh air. Although the city is surrounded by modern skyscrapers and urban buildings, it’s still possible to go to quiet areas and spend a few hours or a whole day enjoying nature. Let’s take a look at some of the parks worth visiting in this busy city!

The most worthwhile parks in Tokyo

Ueno Park: Ueno Park is Japan’s most popular park, located in Tokyo’s Taito Ward, and receives more than 10 million visitors each year. The park was completed in 1873, making it one of the oldest parks in Japan. Ueno Park is home to several museums, shrines, and temples, more than 9,000 trees, and a lotus pond called Shinobazu Pond. The park is open 24 hours a day and can be easily reached from the Ueno Park Exit of Ueno Station. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is undoubtedly the most beautiful park in Tokyo as a national park. The park is actually made up of three different styles of gardens: traditional Japanese, English, and French orthodox. Visiting Ueno Park requires an additional fee, but the small entrance fee is definitely worth it and it helps keep the flow of people in the park under control. Ueno Park is just a 10-minute walk from Ueno Station, Tokyo's main transportation hub.

Yoyogi Park: Yoyogi Park is adjacent to Meiji Jingu Shrine and is an effortless five-minute walk from Harajuku Station. This park is a favorite gathering spot for locals and is often used by various interest groups such as role-playing groups, comedy performance groups, juggling groups, and martial arts groups. Large lawns, ponds, and green areas make Yoyogi Park a great choice for picnics and jogging. At the south end of the park, there is a square dedicated to large and small events.

Imperial Palace East Gardens: Located right next to Edo Castle, the Imperial Palace East Gardens is both a park and a historical site. The park features neat lawns, a quiet lotus pond, and a royal art museum called Sannomaru Shozokan. In the Imperial Palace East Gardens, you can also see the remains of a tower that once belonged to Edo Castle. This park is not only free to enter, but also very easy to find. It is within walking distance from Otemachi (Tokyo) Station and Tokyo Station.

Sumida Park: Located on the banks of the Sumida River, Sumida Park is a great place to relax after visiting Asakusa. This park is planted with hundreds of cherry trees, and the cherry blossoms in bloom in spring are the "protagonists" of photographers. The park also offers a great view of Tokyo Skytree (also known as Tokyo Sky Tree). In the park, you can choose to take a walk along the river or just sit down and watch the water. Sumida Park is only a few minutes away from Asakusa Station~

6. Cheap and delicious roadside sushi



Speaking of sushi, you may not believe that it was originally a fast food, which was designed for people to eat while walking. Today, sushi restaurants on the roadside in Tokyo still continue the tradition of eating while walking, and have become a must-go for finding delicious and cost-effective sushi! At this roadside sushi stall, you can enjoy fresh and high-quality sushi for only $10! ​​Since you are exploring Tokyo, this sushi stall must be worth your visit. Let's take a look at the most worthwhile sushi stalls in Tokyo!

Tokyo's most popular sushi stalls:
• Sakaezushi Tateishi, 1-18-5 Tateishi, Katsushika, Tokyo
• Magurobito Okachimachi, 6-3-7 Ueno, Taito, Tokyo
• Tachigui Midori, 3-28-14 Nishiikebukuro | Echika Ikebukuro, Toshima, Tokyo
• Tachizushi Aoi, 3-6-8 Marunouchi, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• Sakura Sushi, 1-1-30 Nishiikebukuro, Toshima, Tokyo
• Uogashi Nihon-Ichi, 1-12-12 Nishishinjuku | Kasai Bldg. 1F, Shinjuku, Tokyo
• Sushi Misakimaru, 1-27-6 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku, Tokyo

7. Experience traditional Japanese culture at Sensoji Temple



Sensoji Temple is the most popular photo spot in Tokyo. It is famous for its colorful and traditional architecture, making it the most popular photo spot in the city. This ancient Buddhist temple was built in the 7th century AD and is also the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. Sensoji Temple is dedicated to Guanyin Bodhisattva. It receives more than 30 million tourists every year, making it one of the most visited Buddhist holy places in the world. The temple is located in the Asakusa district, just a 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station. As you slowly walk into Sensoji Temple, you will see the Kaminarimon Gate and the large lanterns hanging high on both sides of the gate. Through the gate is Nakamise-dori, a long shopping street located between the first and second gates of the temple. There are hundreds of small shops with different styles in Nakamise-dori, selling a variety of Japanese souvenirs and small gifts, such as traditional Japanese folding fans, handicrafts, and of course authentic snacks. Walk along the street to reach the Hozomon Gate, which is the entrance to the inner courtyard of the temple. Here you can find the main hall of the temple, an amazing five-story pagoda, and a Shinto shrine. Sensoji Temple is more suitable for visiting at night. Although the main courtyard and many shops are closed at this time, you can enjoy the brightly lit night view here because there are much fewer tourists. It is very beautiful.

8. Enjoy the hottest show in Tokyo at Robot Restaurant!



The popular Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku is definitely worth a visit for an experience that you won’t get anywhere else. No, don’t get me wrong, this is not just a restaurant with robot waiters serving you! This is a fantastic show paradise where you can enjoy your meal while watching the most imaginative robot show on the planet. At night, the bar area is lit up with neon lights and you can have a drink before entering the show. During the 90-minute show at Robot Restaurant, you will have the opportunity to see large robot dinosaurs, 3-meter-tall robots, exciting laser shows, colorful flashing lights, dance performances, drumming performances, and many more performances. Watching an epic robot battle under these dazzling lights must be seen to be felt!

9. Experience Magic at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea



Tokyo Disneyland is located east of Tokyo in Japan’s Chiba Prefecture. Take the Musashino Line or Keiyo Line from Tokyo Station to Maihama Station. Whether you’re a frequent Disney fan or have never been to Disneyland before, Tokyo Disneyland is a must-visit! As one of the most successful Disney parks in the world, Tokyo Disneyland has many popular attractions and many unique attractions, such as the Monsters, Inc. Hide and Seek Parade and Winnie the Pooh’s Honey Hunt. Speaking of unique, Tokyo Disney’s twin park, Tokyo DisneySea, is also sure to create a unique experience for you. This Disney nautical theme park is more suitable for adults, but don’t worry, the kids will love it too! The must-see attraction at Tokyo DisneySea is Journey to the Center of the Earth. No matter which international airport you’re departing from in Tokyo, you can easily reach Tokyo Station, whether you’re departing from Haneda International Airport by taking the Tokyo Monorail or from Narita International Airport by taking the Narita Express. If you want to stay in Tokyo Disneyland for several days, then the best hotel choice is the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel, which is right at the entrance of Tokyo Disneyland. You can also choose to stay at Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta Rica.

10. Join the locals and have a drink at one of Tokyo's popular bars



Tokyo is home to world-class bars and professional bartenders who can create a special drink tailored to your taste. There are many places to enjoy classic cocktails made with whiskey, bourbon, rum, a simple beer, or the most delicious bar food you've ever tasted. From small pubs with only a few guests to large bars with a view, Tokyo has it all.

Best bars in Tokyo:

• Ben Fiddich: Ben Fiddich is a 15-seat lounge bar in Shinjuku where you can customize your cocktails.

• What the Dickens!: An authentic British pub in Shibuya, just a few minutes walk from Ebisu (Tokyo) Station, What the Dickens! focuses on British beers and classic British snacks.
• Nikka Blender’s Bar: If you love the famous Nikka whisky, or just want a whisky to get you going, don’t miss Nikka Blender’s Bar at the Nikka Whiskey headquarters.
• Albatross: Albatross is an elegant bar that can accommodate 30 guests. It is also one of the trendiest bars in Tokyo and can be reached quickly from Shinjuku Station.
• Bar High Five: Located in Ginza, Bar High Five has a large collection of whiskies and scotches that bartenders use to create special cocktails.
• Roof Top Bar & Terrace G: Located on the 13th floor of the Shinjuku Granbell Hotel, Roof Top Bar & Terrace G is the best choice for drinking while enjoying the view!
• Bar Pond: For a seasonal cocktail made with rare whiskies and bourbons that are exclusive to Japan, you must not miss Bar Pond in Setagaya.
• Zoetrope: Zoetrope is a great place to taste exclusive Japanese whiskies. This fun bar is full of movie memorabilia, so movie fans should not miss it.
• Gen Yamamoto: Gem Yamamoto’s signature cocktails are made with fresh local ingredients and premium wines.
• Star Bar Ginza: This is another place to go for special cocktails. Star Bar Ginza also pairs snacks with cocktails!

11. Take a cruise to see the beauty of the Sumida River and Tokyo Bay



Tokyo is well connected by waterways, the main of which is the Sumida River and Tokyo Bay. A cruise along the waterways is a relaxing and enjoyable way to see the sights. For some routes, the waterway is even the fastest way. From Asakusa, take a Tokyo Ferry Service water bus south along the Sumida River, visiting many worthwhile destinations along the way, such as Odaiba Seaside Park, Palette Town, Hinode Pier, Hama Rikyu Pier, and Kasai Rinkai Park. The futuristic-style ships of the Sumida River Ferry have large windows, allowing you to enjoy both a cruise and sightseeing. Many ferry operators around Tokyo Bay offer full-day tours. A cruise during the day can be a great way to take in some beautiful photos, but a cruise at night is a truly amazing experience! You can look out of the many large windows of the ship to see the city lights outside at night. Two of the best cruises in Tokyo Bay are the Tokyo Bay Sightseeing Cruise "Symphony" and "Samurai" operated by Samurai Cruises. Both ships depart from Hinode Pier, which is very close to Hinode (Tokyo) Station and Hamamatsucho Station.

12. Explore Tokyo in different seasons



Finally, if you want to make the most of Tokyo, it’s best to schedule some seasonal activities or festivals in your itinerary. As a tourist, participating in seasonal activities, especially those that the locals love, can definitely make your trip special. Whether you prefer climbing, sports activities or nature activities, Tokyo has something for everyone. Let’s take a look at 8 of Tokyo’s most popular seasonal activities.

Cherry Blossom Viewing in Tokyo: Tokyo’s cherry blossom season is usually in late March and early April, when the entire city is covered in a romantic pink. During this season, Japanese locals participate in an event called "hanami" in Japanese, which means flower viewing. The best places to view the flowers are Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and Asukayama Park. Join these locals and enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms together!

Kanda Matsuri and Sanno Matsuri: These two are the most popular festivals in Tokyo. Kanda Matsuri and Sanno Matsuri are usually held alternately every spring. The Kanda Festival is held at Kanda Shrine in May of every odd-numbered year, and on this day, hundreds of portable shrines called Mikoshi parade through the city all day. The Sanno Festival is held at Hie Shrine in June of every even-numbered year, and it is said that this is where the guardian deity of Tokyo resides.

Tokyo Summer Fireworks Festival: Every summer, especially in late July and throughout August, Tokyo becomes the fireworks capital of the world. During this period, many fireworks shows are held in various corners of the city, consuming about 13,000 fireworks each year. The largest fireworks festival is the one held in Sumida Park on the Sumida River, and under normal circumstances, more than 1 million people come to watch the fireworks.

Tokyo Halloween: Tokyo is one of the most suitable cities in the world to celebrate Halloween. On this day, passers-by are often dressed up very amazingly, and the scale of roadside parties is getting bigger and bigger, and the atmosphere is very dynamic. You can attend the largest Halloween party in the city at Shibuya Crossing, and don't miss the Halloween parades in Roppongi and Kawasaki! In addition, Tokyo Disneyland will also change its appearance for Halloween!

Tokyo Chrysanthemum Festival: Throughout November, chrysanthemums will bloom in Tokyo's flower gardens and parks. Chrysanthemums are Japan's national flower and contain important historical information and cultural connotations, so local celebrations are held at this time to celebrate the blooming of chrysanthemums. The best places to see chrysanthemums are Sensō-ji Temple, Yushima Tenmangu Shrine, and Meiji Jingu Shrine.

Tokyo Fall Foliage Hunting: Starting in late November and throughout December, Tokyo will be painted in various reds, oranges, and yellows. If you like fall colors, why not follow the locals to "fall foliage hunting"? Shinjuku Gyoen, Hibiya Park, or Rikugien are all good places to see maple leaves. Although the weather is a little cooler at this time, the room rates in Tokyo are discounted, and there are fewer tourists and it's not too crowded.
Tokyo Light Show: Stroll the streets under neon lights and experience a true winter dream. The annual Tokyo Light Show is held as scheduled on holidays. Come to Tokyo at this time to experience the beauty of the city's buildings and landmarks immersed in colorful LED lights! Tokyo's most popular lighting spots include CarrettaShiodome, Smart Lighting Yokohama, Shinjuku Terrace City, and Tokyo Midtown.

Tokyo Marathon: Of the six most important marathon events in the world, the Tokyo Marathon held in late February or early March every year is a must-see. The race starts at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and passes through many famous areas, including Ginza, Shinagawa, Asakusa, and ends at Tokyo Station. Come cheer for more than 30,000 marathon runners! Every year, you will see marathon runners cosplaying various interesting characters and running through the streets and alleys of the city!